Think your AI chatbot is helping you? Researchers say there’s a risk users may not recognize

Despite repeated warnings about the risks of artificial intelligence, users have become increasingly reliant on AI chatbots—particularly those offering companionship. Yet despite chatbots’ utility for tasks like answering quick queries or offering brief advice, their benefits might not be outweighing the costs. A new, peer-reviewed study from researchers at Northeastern University’s Network Science Institute suggests that AI chatbots used for companionship, despite offering momentary be...